February 20, (THEWILL) – Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin City continued their impressive run in the ongoing Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over second-placed Enyimba International FC of Aba, in their final game of the first-round campaign.
The game, which was played at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, was a crucial one for both sides as they aimed to end the first round on a high note. Bendel Insurance broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute through Imade Isarenkhoe’s well-taken goal, which proved to be the decisive strike of the game. Enyimba tried to find an equaliser but they were unable to break down Bendel Insurance’s solid defence.
The visitors gave their all in the game, but it was not enough to prevent them from suffering a defeat at the hands of the league leaders. The victory ensured that Bendel Insurance finished the first-round campaign with an unbeaten record and 23 points from 9 matches, extending their lead at the top of Group A to seven points over the People’s Elephant of Aba.
In post-match comments, Enyimba’s Head Coach, Finidi George, acknowledged his team’s efforts but expressed disappointment at the loss, while Monday Odigie, Bendel Insurance’s Head Coach, praised his team for their impressive performance and thanked the fans for their support.
Meanwhile, the first-round campaign has come to an end, and all teams will now take a break due to the upcoming 2023 general election before starting preparations for the second round of the league. Bendel Insurance will be hoping to maintain their excellent form in the second round of the league as they aim to win their first NPFL title since 2004.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
